Curry leaves are the glossy green, aromatic leaves of the curry tree. The leaves are commonly used as a flavoring agent in Indian cooking and are characterized by their distinct flavor akin to citrus, asafoetida, lemon grass and anise. Curry trees are native to India and come in many other names including karieppilai, karivepaaku, kari patta and sweet neem.

List of known nutrients

Curry leaves are touted for their rich flavor and high nutritional value. The leaves contain an abundance of essential vitamins and minerals, which include:

Amino acids

Antioxidants

Calcium

Copper

Flavonoids

Glycosides

Iron

Magnesium

Nicotinic acid

Phosphorous

Plant sterols

Vitamin A

Vitamin B

Vitamin C

Vitamin E

Medicinal uses for curry leaf

Curry leaves are best known to boost digestive health and stave off related illnesses. According to an Organic Facts entry, curry leaves help improve overall digestion and relieve diarrhea. Likewise, the leaves are valued for their hepatoprotective properties that stave off a host of liver disorders such as hepatitis and cirrhosis. The article also notes that the aromatic leaves are beneficial in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

The flavorful spice is found to possess strong antioxidant properties as well. The high antioxidant levels in curry leaves are known to eliminate free radicals and protect against the harmful effects of chemotherapy. Certain constituents found in the aromatic leaves are also touted to prevent the onset of certain types of cancer such as leukemia, prostate cancer and colorectal cancer. Additionally, curry leaves are found to lower blood cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular health.

Furthermore, curry leaves are shown to strengthen the immune system and mitigate the risk of contracting bacterial and fungal infections. According to experts, the antibacterial properties of curry leaves are comparable to those of mainstream antibiotics. The popular Indian spice is also touted to improve eye health, thanks largely to its high vitamin A content. Likewise, the flavorful spice is shown to boost both skin and hair health.

Body systems supported by curry leaf

Curry leaves are particularly beneficial to the digestive tract. Likewise, the popular Indian spice helps fortify the immune system and improve heart health. The aromatic leaves also support the eyes, skin and hair.

Ways to use curry leaf

Curry leaves are a staple in Southern and Western Indian cooking. The leaves are touted to provide an interesting flavor to various rice dishes, lentils and curries as well as yogurt and bread. According to the Specialty Produce website, curry leaves usually last for up to two weeks if stored properly.